White Bass — US fishing guide

Morone chrysops
Moronidae

White Bass is one of North America's most sought-after freshwater game fish, found across midwest and south, large reservoirs and rivers. Below is where it lives, when it bites and how to catch it — plus the top US lakes where it has been recorded.

At a glance

Typical habitat
Open water, river mouths
Active times
Daytime
Best season
Explosive spring spawn run in tributaries
US range
Midwest and South, large reservoirs and rivers

How to catch White Bass

Small jigs and spinners during feeding frenzies, often near surface

Browse by state

Top 5068 lakes nationally

Frequently asked questions

Where do you find White Bass?

White Bass typically holds around open water, river mouths. In the US it is common across midwest and south, large reservoirs and rivers.

When is the best time to catch White Bass?

White Bass is most active daytime, with the best fishing explosive spring spawn run in tributaries.

What is the best way to fish for White Bass?

Small jigs and spinners during feeding frenzies, often near surface

All US fish species